Vatican spokesperson Father Federico Lombardi explained in a press conference the purpose of the extraordinary consistory for the family, which began today in Rome with 150 cardinals. It is not to change doctrine (which cannot be done). In the video below, he stresses that no cardinal believes doctrine should be changed. Rather, efforts will focus on understanding challenges and a pastoral approach to “thorny issues” like divorce.

Pope Francis called the consistory in order to prepare for the Synod on the family coming in October.